Former President Ram Nath Kovind received a heartfelt welcome from the governors of Punjab and Haryana during his two-day visit to Chandigarh, highlighting the city's unique status as a shared capital and union territory. Upon arriving on Thursday evening, he was greeted by Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria at the Punjab Raj Bhavan, where the two engaged in cordial discussions. The next morning, Kovind visited the Haryana Raj Bhavan, meeting Governor Prof. Asheem Ghosh and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, in an event marked by personal gestures of respect and tradition.

A standout moment came when Smt. Mitra Ghosh, the First Lady of Haryana, tied a rakhi on Kovind's wrist, a touching act symbolizing protection and brotherhood, especially timely as it coincided with the eve of Raksha Bandhan on August 9, 2025. Kovind expressed his gratitude on social media, sharing photos and noting how such gestures would be cherished. This visit underscores Kovind's continued engagement in public life post his presidency from 2017 to 2022, during which he championed initiatives like rural development and education, often traveling to promote unity and cultural values across states.

Chandigarh's role as the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana since the states' reorganization in 1966 adds significance to these meetings, fostering inter-state harmony amid occasional administrative challenges. Governor Kataria, appointed in 2024, has focused on urban development in the union territory, while Governor Ghosh brings academic expertise to Haryana's governance, emphasizing innovation and youth empowerment. Kovind's itinerary reflects his post-retirement focus on social causes, including previous visits to educational institutions and community events nationwide.

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The interactions also highlight the ceremonial aspects of India's federal structure, where former presidents often participate in symbolic engagements to strengthen ties between states and the center. With Chandigarh's vibrant cultural scene, such visits boost local morale and promote traditions like Raksha Bandhan, which celebrates sibling bonds and has roots in ancient Indian folklore, observed by millions annually with rituals involving sweets and gifts.

Observers see this as part of broader efforts to maintain cordial relations in the region, especially with ongoing discussions on Chandigarh's administrative future. Kovind's warm receptions signal enduring respect for his legacy as India's 14th president, the first from Uttar Pradesh's Dalit community, who emphasized inclusive growth during his term.

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